DF eying second-half surge on the courts

Despite sporting a seemingly unimpressive 7-6 record, Dutch Fork still must be considred one of the better boys tennis teams in the Midlands.

Playing a killer schedule has been one reason for tepid record. After going 2-2 at a preseason tournament in Florence that does not officially count against the DF season record, the Foxes have lost twice to unbeaten Spring Valley, and to traditional powers Lexington, Irmo and Chapin.

As it is, Dutch Fork has a shot at finishing second in Region 5-4A if it can reverse at least one of the second-half rematches vs. Lexington and Irmo. Lexington is unbeaten in region play to date, while Irmo has just one loss. The Foxes fell 5-1 against Lexington and 6-0 to Irmo in the first go-round.

Neil Anderson sports the top individual record on the team, going 7-2 prior to spring break. Anderson had the lone success against Lexington, defeating Wildcat Ross Sons at No. 2 singles. All but one of Anderson’s outings has been at the No. 2 spot in the lineup.

The other winning marks belong to Austin Williams (5-4 at No. 1 singles) and Griffin Markland (5-4 at No. 3).

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